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The P2 vs PMBoK question arises so frequently. Here is another expression of the considerations.

PR-In-CE2 is Projects in Controlled Environments – Its a control Structure. The G-2-the-PMBoK is a guide to the body of knowledge used by project managers – its a dictionary of activities arranged by topic area and structured as Input/Process/Output

PRINCE2 is a no-prior-experience-required multiple-choice qualification (so ‘recognise’ not create nor ‘be fluent in’) that checks candidates know a governance procedure and the relevant information flows between role holders.

P2 tells you close to nothing about tools and techniques to create schedule or assess progress etc. Those familiar with any corporate approvals (gating) structure and an ability to abstract its essential elements might recognise much of P2. P2 has to be combined with agile and pmbok to be a working solution.

At the same level is PMI’s qualification CAPM. It is a no prerequisites multiple-choice qualification that checks candidates can identify a wide range of tools and techniques and their use in a specific sequence. Linking those outputs to be inputs elsewhere.

PMBoK’s mind-set is one of a ‘design first single pass through the development lifecycle’ but that isn’t how it has to be used once you understand it. PMP is CAPM plus 3 to 5 years real world experience.

PMP is approx 100hrs effort to pass, P2 is less and shrinking.

In both cases 99% of 3rd party certification is aimed at how to pass the exams rather than ‘proper practitioner fluency’ in how to use the methods/ tools/ techniques in real world contexts.

The journey for ‘real project managers’ who need to suceed on behalf of their sponsors in organisations is one of creating community and momentum and governance to deliver business change in each of the stakeholder communities of senior leadership, program leadership, technical delivery, suppliers and user community. Quiet different.

Thus while everything is compatible they are quite different pieces of a single picture rather than substitute solutions to a single need. The first two are for individuals, the latter is a capability for an organisation.

Logical model Ltd delivers cheap solutions such as eLearning in the former so that you have the pre-requisites when you realise you really need the latter. Delivering the latter is our passion. A sample skeleton tool for the process is Development Framework